Seven Frequently Asked Questions About Tattoo Removal
Looking to learn a few basics about tattoo removal treatments? Discover the most effective techniques, methods of care, and aftercare recommendations to successfully remove your tattoo below, as we answer seven questions frequently asked of Dr. Aradhna Saxena and the staff at the Dermatology and Skin Cancer Institute in the Greater Philadelphia, PA area.
1) What are my options for tattoo removal?
While there are certainly older methods of tattoo removal available, the professionals at the Dermatology and Skin Cancer Institute in Fort Washington and Lansdale, PA take advantage of some of the great advances in the latest laser tattoo removal technology. Our experienced team of dermatology specialists will assess the details of the tattoo you want removed, its size and color, and the difficulty and sensitivity of where it exists on your body. We’ll then customize and personalize the best tattoo removal treatment for you.
2) Who are the best candidates for successful laser tattoo removal?
It can vary by individual, but you will probably have the most success with tattoo removal if you have older or faded tattoos, are in good health, and tend to recover from everyday ailments more quickly. Having a stark contrast between the tattoo ink color and your skin tone can also make removal easier. Your doctor should be able to easily estimate a success rate for you ahead of time.
3) How long will my laser tattoo removal sessions take?
Your first tattoo removal appointment will be your longest one, and will take about an hour due to your initial assessment and the associated paperwork. Depending on the degree of difficulty to remove your tattoo, the number of sessions necessary to clear your skin of the image will vary. Due to skin irritation and sensitivity, the successive treatments tend to last no longer than 30 minutes to allow your skin to heal between each visit.
4) Will I experience tattoo removal pain?
Advanced technologies in laser tattoo removal have rendered the process only mildly uncomfortable. But because tattoo removal does involve a laser on your skin, you can expect periodic pinches and a light stinging as our dermatologist works to break apart the ink’s particles. Depending on your tolerance for pain, this is completely normal. The specialists will apply a topical numbing agent before your actual procedure begins to ease any discomfort, and increase numbing as needed throughout your sessions.
5) What kind of tattoo removal laser do you use?
The Dermatology and Skin Cancer Institute uses the Q-Switched KTP Nd:YAG laser device, one of the more advanced tattoo removal laser systems on the market today.
6) What can I expect following my laser tattoo removal treatments?
Mild irritation of the skin and pain similar to that of a minor sunburn is to be expected. Rest assured, your doctor has anticipated such discomfort and will provide you with any necessary antibiotics, pain relievers, or skin remedies to take or apply as needed. You can expect the discomfort to last approximately 2 – 3 weeks after each session, and as a safety precaution, we will not begin your next scheduled treatment until the previous one has fully healed.
7) What role do I play in the aftercare of tattoo removal?
Properly caring for your skin after the removal of your tattoo is just as important as the actual procedure. Frequent applications of lotions and ointments with both antibiotics and vitamins will not only help with the healing process, but also the long-lasting preservation and integrity of that area of your skin. It will also be important to cover or dress that area frequently, thus protecting it from external elements that may aggravate the condition of your skin, such as exposure to the sun or accidental contact.
Like many individuals choosing to take the first step and proceed with laser tattoo removal, you likely have some additional questions. At the Dermatology and Skin Cancer Institute, with locations in Fort Washington and Lansdale, PA, we encourage you to voice any questions and concerns you may have. Our aim is to make you as comfortable as possible at every step of your treatment. Contact us to schedule your initial tattoo removal consultation with Dr. Aradhna Saxena in the Greater Philadelphia, PA area, and we’ll take care of the rest.